State Capitol flags at half-staff to honor Hawthorne officer

Flags at the state Capitol in Sacramento are flying at half-staff Tuesday in memory of a Hawthorne police officer who died Monday after a freeway crash, according to Gov. Jerry Brown's press office.

Sgt. Leonard Luna was off duty and riding his personal motorcycle to pick up his police motorcycle when the crash occurred at around 5:30 p.m. Monday on the 105 Freeway near Lynwood. Luna was a 10-year veteran of the department, where he commanded the traffic bureau. He held previous positions in private security.

Brown's office issued a statement on Luna's death late Monday, saying the governor and his wife were "deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Sergeant Leonard Luna. We join his family, friends, colleagues and community as they mourn his loss and remember his courageous and dedicated service to the city of Hawthorne.”

Luna is survived by his mother, father, and brother, according to the release.